Prioritizing Yourself: Emphasizing Self Care to Reduce the Risk of Suicide Crisis

PHOENIX (September 16, 2024) — Everyone faces challenges and difficulties in life, and some troubling times can lead to a point of suicide crisis.

For Veterans who may have faced intense stress, trauma or severe injury while serving, dealing with additional life challenges can increase stress and the chance for a suicide crisis.

A suicide crisis can happen to anyone, and TriWest Healthcare Alliance joins the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in emphasizing the importance of recognizing crisis signs and caring for yourself as key to suicide prevention.

Among younger Veterans, the risks of suicide crisis can be especially challenging. In 2021, suicide was the second-leading cause of death of Veterans under the age of 45, according to VA’s 2023 National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report.

VA stresses that while no one knows when a suicide crisis may happen, taking time to be prepared for potential crisis can prevent suicide.

To learn more on reducing the risk of suicide crisis, read this recent VA News article sharing important crisis preparation advice to prevent suicide.